CIPS L6M1 Strategic Ethical Leadership Exam Practice Test

Answer : A

Evaluation of Autocratic and Affiliative Leadership Approaches (25 Points)

Leadership approaches vary based on organizational needs, culture, and objectives. Below is an in-depth evaluation of Autocratic Leadership and Affiliative Leadership, focusing on their characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and suitability in procurement and supply chain management.

1. Autocratic Leadership (12.5 Points)

Definition and Characteristics

Autocratic leadership is a command-and-control approach where decision-making is centralized, and the leader exerts full authority over subordinates. Employees have little to no input in decisions.

Key Features:

The leader makes all critical decisions without consulting the team.

Strict top-down communication is followed.

Highly structured and rule-based management.

Focus on efficiency, discipline, and control.

Suitable for crisis management, military organizations, and high-risk industries.

Advantages of Autocratic Leadership

Quick Decision-Making:

Since decisions are made by one leader, the process is fast and efficient, especially in time-sensitive situations such as supply chain disruptions.

Clear Chain of Command:

Employees have a clear understanding of who is in charge, reducing confusion and ensuring a structured workflow.

Improved Accountability:

With strict supervision, employees remain focused on their tasks, leading to higher productivity.

Effective in Crisis Situations:

In procurement, during a supply chain disruption (e.g., a supplier bankruptcy), a leader must make immediate decisions to secure alternative suppliers.

Disadvantages of Autocratic Leadership

Lack of Employee Engagement & Motivation:

Since employees have no voice in decision-making, they may feel undervalued, leading to low morale and high turnover.

Reduced Innovation & Creativity:

Employees are not encouraged to share new ideas or problem-solving approaches, which can limit procurement process improvements.

Potential for Micromanagement:

Autocratic leaders tend to oversee every detail, leading to inefficiency and lack of trust in the team.

Suitability in Procurement & Supply Chain

Best suited for highly regulated industries (e.g., government procurement, defense supply chains).

Effective in emergency situations (e.g., supplier failure, legal compliance issues).

Not ideal for collaborative procurement environments where supplier relationships and teamwork are crucial.

2. Affiliative Leadership (12.5 Points)

Definition and Characteristics

Affiliative leadership is a people-first leadership style that prioritizes employee well-being, relationships, and harmony within teams.

Key Features:

Focus on empathy and emotional intelligence.

The leader builds strong team bonds and fosters a positive workplace culture.

Employees are encouraged to collaborate and voice their opinions.

Suitable for organizations undergoing change, stress, or morale issues.

Advantages of Affiliative Leadership

Boosts Employee Morale and Motivation:

Employees feel valued and supported, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention.

Encourages Collaboration and Innovation:

Unlike autocratic leadership, an affiliative leader welcomes team input, encouraging creative solutions in procurement strategies.

Strengthens Supplier Relationships:

In procurement, affiliative leadership improves negotiations and long-term supplier partnerships through trust and open communication.

Effective During Organizational Change:

This approach helps teams adapt to new procurement strategies, digital transformations, or policy changes smoothly.

Disadvantages of Affiliative Leadership

Lack of Firm Decision-Making:

Leaders may avoid conflict or tough decisions to maintain team harmony, leading to slow decision-making.

Risk of Lower Performance Expectations:

Overemphasizing relationships may reduce accountability, leading to underperformance in procurement teams.

Not Suitable for Crisis Management:

In urgent procurement situations (e.g., contract disputes, legal violations), an affiliative leader may struggle to enforce discipline.

Suitability in Procurement & Supply Chain

Best for relationship-driven roles (e.g., supplier relationship management, collaborative procurement).

Effective in team-building and change management (e.g., transitioning to digital procurement systems).

Not ideal for high-risk decision-making environments (e.g., crisis procurement, compliance enforcement).

Which Leadership Style is Best for Procurement?

For short-term crises, regulatory compliance, or high-risk procurement Autocratic Leadership is better.

For long-term supplier management, teamwork, and innovation Affiliative Leadership is more effective.

A balanced approach (situational leadership) that combines elements of both styles is often the most effective strategy in procurement.

This evaluation provides a structured, detailed comparison that aligns with CIPS L6M1 exam expectations.